📣 Description :

Discover the fascinating tale of how a humble British pastry became a cherished Mexican delicacy in this episode of Mexico Unlocked. We're exploring the rich history of the paste, a savory turnover that traveled from the mines of Cornwall to the heart of Hidalgo, Mexico.

In the 19th century, Cornish miners arrived in Real del Monte, bringing with them their traditional pasties—portable meals filled with meat and vegetables. Mexican locals embraced and adapted these pastries, infusing them with native flavors like mole, tinga, and sweet fruits, creating the paste we know today. 

Join us as we delve into the cultural significance of pastes in Hidalgo's culinary landscape. We'll discuss how these pastries became symbols of resilience and cultural fusion, celebrated annually at the International Paste Festival in Real del Monte.

Whether you're an expat, student, or digital nomad eager to explore Mexico's diverse cuisine, this episode offers a flavorful journey through history, culture, and gastronomy. Learn about the evolution of pastes, their role in community identity, and where to find the most authentic bites.

Tune in to Mexico Unlocked and savor the story of Hidalgo's iconic paste.

🎙️ Episode Summary :

In this episode of Mexico Unlocked, we trace the origins of the paste, a beloved Mexican pastry with roots in 19th-century Cornwall. Brought over by British miners to the silver-rich town of Real del Monte, the Cornish pasty was embraced and transformed by local Mexican communities, leading to the creation of the paste. 

We'll explore how this culinary adaptation reflects a broader story of cultural exchange and resilience. From its initial role as a practical meal for miners to its current status as a symbol of Hidalgo's rich heritage, the paste exemplifies the fusion of British and Mexican traditions. 

Listeners will gain insights into the traditional and modern variations of pastes, their significance in local festivals, and their place in Mexico's diverse gastronomic scene. This episode was prepared using verified, up-to-date references sourced through AI research tools like Notebook LM, ensuring accurate and comprehensive information.

Disclaimer: A full list of references is available in the episode notes or on our podcast website for transparency and legal purposes.

📚 References:

1. "How pastes became a beloved Mexican pastry centuries ago"
   Associated Press
   Published: October 12, 2024
   https://www.fastcompany.com/91209880/pastes-mexico-british-miners-history
   Details the historical journey of pastes from Cornwall to Mexico and their cultural integration in Hidalgo.

2. "What is the cultural significance of pastes in Hidalgo's culinary history?"
   Victor Hugo Padilla Jimenez
   Published: May 28, 2025
   https://mexicada.shop/blogs/mexico-uncovered/what-is-the-cultural-significance-of-pastes-in-hidalgo-s-culinary-history
   Explores the deep-rooted cultural importance of pastes in Hidalgo's society.

3. "How did the tradition of making Pastes originate in Hidalgo?"
   Victor Hugo Padilla Jimenez
   Published: May 28, 2025
   https://mexicada.shop/blogs/mexico-uncovered/how-did-the-tradition-of-making-pastes-originate-in-hidalgo
   Provides insights into the origins and evolution of pastes in Hidalgo.

4. "Bold Bites from the Mines: Hidalgo's Legendary Pastes Hidalguenses"
   The Half Jalapeño
   Published: May 26, 2025
   https://www.thehalfjalapeno.com/bold-bites-from-the-mines-hidalgo/
   Offers a modern perspective on pastes, including recipes and cultural context.

5. "Pastes – food in Hidalgo"
   Debbie Vorachen
   Published: December 18, 2015
   https://ahoritaya.wordpress.com/2015/12/18/pastes-food-in-hidalgo/
   Personal account highlighting the popularity and variations of pastes in Hidalgo.